This is a beautiful African Xhosa Status Blanket or Notolo, made of trade cloth with the top folded over and sewn to make a collar. It is decorated with beadwork, mother of pearl buttons and black braid, the status symbols of traditional Xhosa dress in the post-colonial world. The profusion of buttons and the beadwork style identify it as Mgfenu (Fingo) a sub tribe of refugees form the 18th century Zulu wars who now live with the Xhosa tribe and have adopted their customs and culture. Like many items of Xhosa costume, it has been ocher in  color in the past and has faded to a light brown with washing. Xhosa blankets were worn for many reasons. Young brides wore them around their shoulders, well wrapped to protect their modesty. while young male initiates were give one as their only shelter when living rough in the bush during their months-long seclusion. The owners subsequently wore them as everyday clothing,presumably in colder weather, since married women wore only a modesty panel to cover their breasts, while men wore nothing else above the waist, although traditionally, married women and sometimes men , often wore a short cloak over the shoulders instead of the full blanket. A wonderful item to add display in your home or add to your collection.

Shows age and wear, but in perfect condition    Museum Quality

66 x 60

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